Frustrated over four taxes on four square metres of real estate

I’ve never been one to make political comment. As a business owner and citizen – I just get on with working hard to grow my business, raise my children and contribute to the community.

I was asked to participate in The Nation for Sky News on April 30 – just prior to the release of the response by the Government to the Henry Review, and also the Budget.

I have often invited Julia Gillard to come and hang out at RedBalloon for her to experience the way business is done ‘this century’. How smart employers are investing in people – knowing that engagement gives us a competitive advantage.

Yet again – a government who was given a clear mandate from the people in the last election has failed to support business growth. I’m alarmed that no work has yet been done to clean up the taxation system (70 years and 3 levels of mess)

I pointed out in the interview; it is the cost of collection as well as the financial burden to business that puts such a burden on business. Quite frankly it is a disincentive to grow. (And let’s not talk about payroll tax – because I will just get angry).

I’ll give you an example – we have two off streetcar spaces at our office and I have to pay the Sydney City Council a special tax on these – about $2,000 per year. In addition to that I have to keep a register of which employee uses them as they could be deemed FBT-able. Two taxes on the same tiny bit of real estate. The cost and imposition on compliance is ridiculous. In addition of course we paid stamp duty when purchasing the property and we will pay capital gains tax when we sell it. Four taxes on one tiny bit of real estate – and all that cost of compliance.

We want leaders who will help business grow! No wonder I am cynical.

I’m interested to hear your views.

Naomi Simson is considered one of Australia’s ‘Best Bosses’. She is an employee engagement advocate and practices what she preaches in her own business. RedBalloon has been named as one of only six Hewitt Best Employers in Australia and New Zealand for 2009 and awarded an engagement scorecard of over 90% two years in a row – the average in Australian businesses is 55%. RedBalloon has also been nominated by BRW as being in the top 10 Best Places to Work in Australia behind the likes of Google. One of Australia’s outstanding female entrepreneurs, Naomi regularly entertains as a passionate speaker inspiring people on employer branding, engagement and reward and recognition. Naomi writes a blogand is a published author – and has received many accolades and awards for the business she founded – RedBalloon.com.au.